Troops of the Nigerian Army-led joint security team has rescued all 16 persons abducted by suspected kidnappers during a coordinated search and rescue operation in Ofu and Dekina Local Government Areas of Kogi State.
The operation involved troops of the Nigerian Army working alongside personnel of the Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, local vigilantes and hunters.
According to a statement shared on Tuesday by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, the victims were abducted on Sunday, August 9, 2026, when armed criminals attacked commuters along the Ojuwo–Ajengo–Memarebo and Ojiwo–Itobe roads in Ofu Local Government Area.
Following credible intelligence that the victims had been taken towards Adumu Community in Dekina Local Government Area, troops of the 21 Battalion and personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship Lugard immediately launched a joint search and rescue operation with the police and local security stakeholders.
During the operation, the security team made contact with the fleeing kidnappers, leading to a fierce gun battle.
The superior firepower and coordinated assault of the security forces reportedly forced the kidnappers to abandon all their captives and flee into the surrounding forest, with some believed to have sustained gunshot wounds.
The operation resulted in the successful rescue of all 16 victims**, comprising six adult males, six adult females and four children.
The rescued victims are currently undergoing documentation and medical assessment before being reunited with their families.
However, the operation recorded a casualty on the side of the local security team, as one local hunter who participated in the rescue operation was killed during the encounter.
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One police officer also sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment.
The Nigerian Army commended the courage and sacrifice of the hunter and other security personnel involved in the operation, describing their efforts as a demonstration of commitment to protecting innocent citizens.
The successful rescue highlights the importance of collaboration among the military, police, other security agencies and community-based security groups in tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The Army also commended members of the public for providing timely and credible intelligence that contributed to the successful operation.
It urged residents to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious movements and activities to security agencies through appropriate channels.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its determination to sustain joint operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, rescuing victims and denying kidnappers and other criminal elements freedom of action across the country.
